High frequency signal hub

ABSTRACT

The present invention concerns a system for high frequency signal transmission in power line networks and also concerns signal hubs and repeaters to be used in such systems. The primary aim of the invention is to provide a communication system of a general type wherein the isolation between high frequency input and output signals is maintained. The hubs and repeaters are designed to be easily installed in the network. Radio and wireless links at subscriber nodes are also parts of the system.

The present invention concerns analogue signal repeater system solutionsof the general type as explained in the preamble of the appended claim1, as well as analogue signal repeater as described in appended claims.

BACKGROUND

During the last 20 years analogue high frequency repeaters in digitalcommunication systems have been neglected in favour of digitalsolutions. Analogue amplifiers may be realized with analogue or digitalsignal processing methods and are characterized by foremost beingcompletely or partly transparent. They give an amplified, analogrepresentation of the input signal which offers a near unchangedbandwidth and very low latency even with very large system bandwidthsDigital repeaters are not transparent and are likely to be based on juston type of modulation and one type of communication protocol which againis likely to be of proprietary character. The resulting conversiontaking place within them gives a high current draw and usually theyexhibit large physical dimensions. In addition each repeater contributesto a substantial reduction of total bandwidth of the system andintroduces always problematic latencies that either excludes orcomplicates certain modern, time critical digital telecommunicationservices.

There will also be physical limits for how far technologies usingdigital repeaters can be developed for large bandwidths. Usingsemiconductors of known kinds there are physical limitations for howmuch it is possible to reduce power consumption at high processingspeeds which among other is given by the lower limit for the transistorsupply voltage and clock frequencies. Adding to this is that suchsolutions are not inexpensive to manufacture from for instance the needto always being obliged to use the latest and most expensive technology.Such technologies are therefore rapidly superseded by new generationsresulting in high write-off costs. As a consequence it is thereforeexpensive and impractical to use sufficient number of such repeaters asfor example to sustain low signal levels on cables or cover an area bywireless where line of sight obstructions are eminent. There istherefore a significant need for innovative solutions that giverepeaters that can be used in larger numbers showing low productioncosts and that exhibit small dimensions and consume small currents. Ananalog repeater system can additionally be made compatible with anyexisting none proprietary communication system and will be usable withmost future ones.

Analog repeaters do not have the drawbacks mentioned with respect todigital repeaters. It has been claimed that the main disadvantage ofanalog repeaters is their accumulation of noise. This conclusioncontains substantial errors, besides it is a fact that a system withdigital repeaters will accumulate noise that gradually reduce the symbolbandwidth in addition to the reduction of bandwidth happening due to thetime delays associated with each repeater. It is know from old time'sanalog repeaters of telephone systems that they accomplished relayingthe signals around the globe. With regenerative, super regenerative andsuper heterodyne analog repeaters it is possible to obtain regenerationof the signal that among other reasons is due to the averaging of noisein the same way as when amplifiers are connected in parallel. Theaccumulated, systematic noise may be reduced by various means. A largeis number of analog repeaters can be utilized until a significantdegeneration of the signal takes place provided the repeaters havemeasures accordingly construction wise. The advantage of analogrepeaters is that they consume substantially less energy than thedigital. This is particularly important when they are to be batterypowered or are to live off currents in conductors which they are looselyconnected to, for example inductively.

I repeater or transponder systems as given in patent documentsNO2001057, NO20010132, NO20040112, PCT/NO01/00079, PCT/NO003/00004NNO20040110, PCT/NO20050013 is shown how analog repeaters and systemsusing analog repeaters can be realized in sub optimal cases for bothwireless and wire bound solutions or integrations of such.Characteristics for such impaired cases are when conventional schemesare not applicable or when sufficient isolation between input signal andoutput signal is not inherently increasable to become larger than thegain of the repeater. Consequently it is also characteristic of suchcases that there are points along the signal medium where analog gain isnecessary but where it is impractical to introduce such isolation.Examples of this are cable junctions that cannot be broken such as withpower grid wires and cables. One example in wireless applications iswhen only one antenna can be applied or when large separation in theform of number of wavelengths cannot be realized. Further examples ofunfavourable cases are when the isolation between input and outputsignals are reduced due to reflections of various causes. This may bethe case for both wire bound and wireless systems. In wire bound systemsa certain control may usually be exercises accordingly. In wirelesssystems variable reflection conditions if often a greater problem. A oneport amplifier, meaning a repeater is stable only as long as sufficientisolation between the amplifier or repeater and a reflection occurringin the system or repeater cascade is present. It is therefore a need ofnovel, simple solutions that makes it more practical to meet suchchallenges. In some cases conventional principles have utilizedcirculators to aid isolation and achieve directional sensitivity.However, this is costly and additionally impractical in large numbers.Even other types of directional sensitivity is often impractical toimplement.

The results of lacking isolation between input and output signals withsignal repetition using frequency transposing is duplex noise.

The consequences under the mentioned impaired conditions followed byimproper isolation or reflections may be that stability criteria forsame channel signal repetition cannot be met.

When frequency transposing is applied in analog repeater systems it isoften important that a minimum of channels are utilized for duplexpurposes both to achieve the largest possible effective symbol bandwidthusing the available frequency spectrum as well as to allow space forchannels for two way communication or multiple channel systems toaccomplish an increased, available system bandwidth. In this context itis also required to place adjacent channels as close to each other aspossible. Super regenerative frequency converts allow very small spacingbetween input and output channel in a repeater as depicted in thepublications NO20011057, NO20010132, NO20020112, NO20040110,PCT/NO01/00079, PCT/NO03/00004, PCT/NO20050013. There is a need fornovel applications that can make more efficient use of available anduseful channels in such systems. This is especially important in broadband applications. It is also particularly important in wirelessapplications when the density in certain frequency bands is large. Itmay be even more important in cable based systems, in particular withcables exhibiting poor high frequency properties where often onlymarginal frequency regions are available for the symbol bandwidth indemand today and in the future.

When the signal gain is larger than 1 for a same frequency repeater thestability criteria are important in order to utilize the gain.Reflections and echoes from other repeaters play a substantial role inorder to achieve stability. The phase is influenced by the compleximpedance the gain port or ports look into and by the isolation betweenthe ports of a multi port gain block. Analog gains has to a large extentbeen omitted in modern networks due to the difficulties of achieving thecombination of stability with sufficient gain. It is particularlydifficult to produce solutions that are repeatable and possiblyreproducible I large numbers or in large systems. Directionalattenuation in some form is often the only and the best measure againstechoes and reflections. In some applications attenuation of interferenceof 10 to 20 dB is sufficient, however in other applications that demandgood linearity as with QAM and OFDM attenuations of 30 to 50 dB isrequired. For some modulation types problems with frequency beating mayoccur even with relatively large isolation. Previously publishedsolutions are not capable of satisfying isolation levels and thoseprinciples only have limited applications as for instance with nonelinear systems like frequency modulation using rather narrow bandwidths.It is therefore a large need for novel, practical solutions that offerrepeater stability combined with satisfactory gain and signal to noiseratio. There is a need for such solutions both for signal repetitionusing frequency transposing as well as same frequency repetition.

There is a large need for improvement of connectivity and installationfriendliness in broad band systems utilizing the power grid asinfrastructure generally. This need also concerns such systems thatincorporate analog repeater systems.

OBJECT OF THE INVENTION

An object of the invention is to realize novel, innovative solutionsthat achieve practically one hundred per cent connectivity in systemsfor digital networks based on the infrastructures constituted by thepower grids. Several of these objects may be common to corresponding,other infrastructures and wireless networks. Further it is an object ofthe invention to achieve installation convenience comparable toestablished technologies or better.

It is an object of the said invention to make available solutions thatin cost effective and production friendly manner ensures repeatability,stable operation and maximum signal dynamics for analog high frequencyrepeaters in systems especially for one- and two way wire bound digitalcommunication, digital streaming, digital multicast, digital returnchannel and for other systems such as digital terrestrial networks andsimilar systems however, not to exclude other, important applications inwireless transmissions. An object of the invention is also that powerconsumption is to be kept low through design simplicity. A furtherobject of the invention is for it to be installation friendly. Theobject of the invention is also to provide redundancy, improvedstability and widened application areas for the inventions described inNO20001057, NO20010132, NO20020112, PCT/NO01/00079, PCT/NO03/00004.Further objects of the invention are achieved through improving thestability criteria for same frequency repeaters both is with gains lessthan isolation between ports as well as gains larger than the isolationbetween ports. A similar object of the invention is achieved withsolutions concerning duplex conditions. Still more objects of theinvention is achieved with solutions reducing mutual interferencebetween repeaters, beating between repeaters and interference fromechoes and reflections. Further one object of the invention is to enablethe realisation of practical solutions for directional discriminationand transmission of large bandwidths on single conductors like highvoltage power lines. One object of the invention is also to allow thesolutions of said invention to be utilized in an adaptive way whereadaptivity preferably is controlled by local intelligence or by centralintelligence. One further object of the invention is to facilitate thecombination of a number of methods to achieve isolation between ports,to reflections and to other repeaters.

For a skilled expert in the art other objects of the invention will beobvious from the descriptions of the invention.

THE INVENTION

The present invention can be described as a communication system toachieve nearly ideal connectivity with communication mediums orinfrastructures where dispersion, cross talk, reflections andattenuation constitutes that this is not achievable or is hardlyattained using standard equipment or methods for network communication.

The invention in this way offers a communication system achievingconstant bandwidth nearly independently of range within communicationmedium or infrastructure where dispersion, cross talk, reflections andattenuation.

The invention therefore is especially suited for power networks whereall these problems exist and where the infrastructure basically isunstructured for normal, physical communication topologies.

The invention assumes that the infrastructure may be regarded astransmission lines with inserted attenuations, dispersive effects andreflections and with inserted points where it is possible to regeneratethe signals I units inserted or coupled at accessible physical pointsalong the transmission line. Using frequency diversity this can beperformed for more than one signal direction.

The invention solves in an important way dividing or splitting of thetwo high frequency wise separated signal directions towards the mainterminal node and toward the user terminal nodes or subsequent repeatersin the repeater cascade. The invention solves the problem of combiningisolation between ports and signal processing when the signals is splitin a Y or star structure. Such splitting of the infrastructure withrespect to high frequency signals is either advantageous or mandatorywhen communication equipment designed for star structures such as withxDSL technologies is utilized. The invention here enables also hybriduses of technologies such as when using any technology on the mainbackbone lines in combination with xDSL in junctions points where starstructures high frequency wise is realizable. Whether the infrastructureor the system globally speaking has grid or star topology or as is mostcommon, constitutes a mixture the need for splitting will be present.Such splitting may become considerably complex and expensive or may evenbe too difficult whatsoever to realize as when isolation, signaldynamics and duplex specifications are to be combined. The inventionsolves this in a novel way with the aid of active circuits and simplesolutions. The invention also contributes to regeneration of the signalsin both directions in addition to the repeater itself by zeroing eachvirtual wire pair electrically before the signals travels on. Among themost important properties of the invention is the splitter utilizing thedifference between S21 and S12 in that each splitter line in both signaldirections has a dedicated gain block. The invention solves the problemwith having a duplex filter in each line which may exhibit varyingimpedance by the active gain being low and thereby enabling high valuesfor IP1 and IP3. In stead common duplex filters are placed in the commonlines for the respective signal directions. Additionally the inventionoffers novel solutions for making the splitter broad banded for bothsignal directions. The invention can also be used for just one signaldirection.

When the infrastructure does not allow physical splitting as withconductors in low voltage power grids as in such cases as in junctionboxes, the invention solves the problem using external isolation betweenthe lines outside the splitter aided by clamp on ferrites on each of therespective conductors. In addition the invention utilizes if necessaryinserted low impedances between conductors to increase the isolation.The invention makes it possible to introduce this without alteringoperative conditions of the normal purposes of the infrastructurewithout requiring power downs during installation and without the needfor modification of the infrastructure that could alter it's normaloperation.

The invention therefore divides junction points of the infrastructureinto one part retaining it's previous application and one part being asignal part with differential signal ports that are split in two signaldirections between the signal ports. This is the principle of theinvention for any signal processing between on signal port and any otherand for any signal direction. In order to break up the originalinfrastructure high frequency wise known technology is used withinsertion of toroids of magnetic or dielectric material.

Since the invention is targeted on infrastructures and mediums with alarge degree of reflections and none differential signal modes theinvention applies significant suppression of unwanted signal modes. Sucha solution in the invention to avoid unwanted signal modes deterioratingconnectivity uses three transformers and a common mode choke. Othercases may be satisfied using only two transformers and a common modechoke.

The invention also takes into consideration that the infrastructure mayvary in implementation and quality high frequency wise in thatintroduced signal attenuation cannot be calculated or predictedsufficiently causing beating despite of insertions of ferrites andsummation of total attenuation. This may be the case of repeaterstransmitting in the same frequency bands and contrary to large physicalrange may produce beating that will reduce quality or even connectivity.The invention shows a novel method of reducing this problem which cangive 10 dB or more improved signal to noise margin by the repeaterstransmitting in the same frequency bands being transmitting with carrierfrequencies slightly detuned relative to any other of the proximaterepeaters that may produce same frequency band beating.

The invention will in some cases utilize very small frequency shifts notlarger than to allow the information bandwidth still to remain withinthat same frequency band. In the invention this will depend somewhat onthe modulation used. In the invention such frequency offsets as well asother repeater parameters may be remote controlled either using the maincommunication system or a dedicated interface. Alternatively theinvention may use additionally phase and frequency locking of some orall frequency generators in some or all repeaters to avoid beating.Clock regeneration for this purpose may in the invention be secured by apilot signal or by regeneration from one of the communication signals.

The comprehensive versatility of the invention is that it allows anymodulation type and any communication protocol as well as hybridsolutions using different modulation types and protocols and thatexisting, commercially available communication equipment can be applied.The invention allows in a novel way the possibility to utilize hybridtechnology like for example using the most optimum technology wheredifficult, long distributions are present and where the most importantis to achieve connectivity and stability possibly by sacrificingbandwidth. The principle of the invention to use simplex systems orsystems using the same frequency band for different signal directions isnormally best served by splitting the signal having separate frequencyconversion for the signal directions, possibly using common or externalfrequency and phase locking for the signal directions that are split orcombined.

It may similarly be explained that the principle of the invention forusing duplex systems or systems with differing frequency bands fordifferent signal directions usually are most conveniently frequencyconverted separately, possibly using common or external frequency andphase locking for the signal transmissions that are split or combined.

Some of the principles of the invention for frequency conversion arecomprised of a novel way of applying state of the art integratedcircuits intended for cable modems.

In this context and in others the invention can make use of repeatersthat fully demodulate the signal, possibly using built in clockgenerator and down to base band where after it is modulated onto acarrier again where one sideband is is filter selected or suppressedusing IQ modulation. Corresponding actions are taken using modulatorrespectively demodulator in each end of a communication lap herebyallowing application of standard, commercially available communicationnodes.

The invention may incorporate novel solutions using regenerativerepeaters, especially super regenerative repeaters. A regenerativerepeater consists of an unstable amplifier or oscillator that iscontrolled by a quenching circuit. It is commonly know that usefulconnectivity is difficult to achieve using such repeaters due to theinstallation variations effecting strongly the repeater's properties,reducing the connectivity substantially. Super regenerative repeatersuse quenching frequencies that are above the highest informationfrequency component and produce sideband combs on both side of thecarrier frequency. This may be filtered using band pass filters, howeverthis has drawbacks due to the high requirements of the filteringlinearity, stability and repeatable impedances. The invention alsooffers a novel solution that can apply state of the art integratedcircuits and make use of the demodulated signal from a superregenerative repeater which in turn is modulated onto a carrierfrequency which is synchronous and in phase with the super regenerativeoscillator and the quench oscillator, the latter two having to bemutually synchronized.

The invention makes in the repeaters use of the application of low gainprior to intermediate frequency selectivity and gain by utilizingpreferably programmable low and high pass filters at the input as longas unique requirements for cross channel selectivity is not called for.This is made possible by the invention despite that only limitedisolation is attainable in the combiners and using pre amplifiers withlow gain and large dynamic range and ahead of the signal mixers tocompensate for noise figure losses in the frequency mixers. By thismethod only one, preferably programmable band pass filter for eachsignal direction is required which the invention introduces succeedingthe power gain at a level not more than 10 to 20 dB below the desiredoutput power level from the repeater. Thereby the noise floor reachingthe receivers through the combiners can be kept at typically—100 dBm to120 dBm.

One example of the nearly unlimited scope of applications for theinvention in the low voltage power grid are solutions for connectivityand coupler arrangements in mast systems such as for example with EXclassification cables. Repeater and splitter and power supply may beplaced inside a splash proof, cylindrical encapsulation close to thecable suspension on the mast and close the distribution points whenthere are also distributions to power consumers. Clamp-on ferrites areplaced on individual conductors that are to carry signal differentially.Signal port towards the sub station which is normally used as a terminalpoint, are coupled into the repeater differentially with two, possiblyfire conductors. The invention has corresponding applicability with mastmounted so called naked wire.

Corresponding actions can be carried out within junction panels andjunction boxes both indoor and outdoor. The cabinet or box is thenusually made of metal and increases immunity against none differentialmodes. The repeater, including the splitter can be placed in the boxwith proper environmental protection. Coupling arrangements to therepeater for gains between preceding and subsequent terminal point,possibly junction box is carried out through differential coupling aheadof the ferrites, capacitively or inductively. Similarly the repeater isconnected between preceding terminal point and the distribution lines.

In a quite corresponding way the invention can also be applied toimproving connectivity on signal cables and wires such as in junctionboxes for telephone cables which these days are sued as so called copperaccess networks for ADSL and other technologies. These are already withrespect to signals differential systems and as such are convenient foradaptation. Additionally they carry just low voltages and small currentsand the wire sizes are small and allow effective ferrites to beinserted, preferably as clamp-on to ease installation. Short circuitswith respect to high frequency is very easy to install. In coppersystems the invention may increase the number of useful lines for xDSLfrom some tens of per cent to one hundred per cent.

In a relatively corresponding way the invention can provide optimumconnectivity during installation in power grids with mast mounted mediumvoltage lines using so called naked wire. The invention shows a novelway of obtaining signal coupling without the aid of high voltagecapacitors that would otherwise represent increased risks of operationdisturbances and a substantial cost. The invention utilizes a couplercorresponding to a loop antenna which horizontally or vertically hasdisplaced symmetry to the individual conductors or phases. The couplercan be made more efficient using magnetic materials or using dielectricmaterials with high Epsilon value. To compensate for the difficulty ofintroducing short circuits for high frequencies the coupler is realizedusing two connections thus achieving directional sensitivity. Thecoupler carries two coupling cables to enable this by utilizing phasedifference between the two signal directions. The arrangement fordirectional discrimination is put inside the repeaters that have asplitter as well. It ensures also that the signals to and from thecouplers are treated differentially. Ferrites can be installed with hotsystem and they increase isolation. A further embodiment of theinvention is a stretched out loop working according to the sameprinciple but where the loop geometry also ensures differential inputand output feeds without an eventual third center conductor disruptingthe symmetry.

Similarly where in ground buried and other cable systems it is difficultto achieve satisfying connectivity like when due to long cable runsbetween termination points, the invention enables repeaters and possiblyalso signal splitting at cable splices. Such well insulated cablesplices exist in numbers throughout cable systems. Digging down to themis a minor cost relative to digging ditches for new cables or fibrecables. Further, it may be cost effective to dig down to a cable inorder to perform a standard cable splicing with the purpose ofinstalling a repeater, possibly also a signal splitter. The couplingloop works together with the existing asymmetry of the splicing beingsufficient for the required coupling. The repeater may be dug down andpossibly powered inductively using a core and coil or a power cable maybe run to the surface. With respect to operational reasons the inventionallows signal cables to run to a surface mounted repeater possibly withsplitter and junctions.

Embodiments of the invention include versions of the coupling loopadvantages for suppressing none differential modes. With the stretchedloop part of the loop system works as transmission lines. The taperingconductors are important for the efficiency of the loop system andshould not protrude less than 45 degrees from the loop elementsthemselves, that is the elements running parallel with the cables. Theefficiency is at maximum when the spacing between the loop elements isslightly larger than the spacing between the infrastructure outerconductors of such systems as a three conductor, three phase systems.

The invention is characterized by obtaining low noise high frequencygains in a novel way while third order intermodulation intercept pointseasily reach over +20 dBm while second order products easily is keptlower than −65 dBc. Gains in excess of 10 dB is easily achieved. Theinvention makes this possible using noise free gain with the transformer2013 with the aid of voltage up transformation into emitter followerconnected transistor 2015, 2016 high input impedance. For even higherpower levels and intermodulation properties GaAS or HEMT transistor canbe used as source followers.

A characteristic property of the invention is that it is adaptable toany communication system or broadcast system using up to a number oftens of Megahertz analog bandwidth. Examples of such PHY's are Docsisand Wimax. Further characteristics are the facilitation of using fibrefor aggregation of services to customer nodes. Still furthercharacteristics of the invention is the facilitation of upstreamcommunication for other types of systems that do not have upstreamoptions. One characteristic is also that the invention can include radiolink using analog interfaces for distribution of services. Furthercharacteristics with the invention is the facilitation of sufficientquality for Triple Play and Quadruple Play services all the way to thecustomer premises. Further characteristics is the facilitation of narrowband services in addition to broad band for alarm, surveillance,emergency communication, remote metering, Smart House applications andthe similar.

SHORT DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

FIG. 1 shows the basic characteristics of signals and connectivity ofthe invention and it's combinational characteristics for signals.

FIG. 2 shows how the invention in a novel way using low cost, repeatablemethods ensures splitting and combination of signals together with largesignal dynamics, favourable duplex properties and availability for morethan one signal is direction.

FIG. 3 shows how the invention provides high frequency isolation in theinfrastructure that the splitter and combiner is connected to.

FIG. 4 shows how the invention works with coexistence between theinfrastructure original purpose and the high frequency differentialsignal flow.

FIG. 5 shows how the invention solves the need for nearly idealsuppression of none differential signal modes in the infrastructure.

FIG. 6 shows how the invention may solve problems associated withbeating in the same frequency band between repeaters with the help ofcombining range attenuation and frequency shifting.

FIG. 7 envisions two methods for reduction of beating, namely usingfrequency shifting and synchronized oscillators in the signal repeaters.

FIG. 8 shows how commercially available communication nodes for simplexcan be connected.

FIG. 9 shows how commercially available communication nodes for duplexcan be connected.

FIG. 10 shows how the invention in a novel way applies state of the artintegrated circuits for cable modems.

FIG. 11 envisions that full demodulation and re-modulation in signalrepeaters can improve connectivity.

FIG. 12 shows a novel way of realizing as an example one frequency bandsuper regenerative repeaters for low or no port isolation using fulldemodulation and re-modulation.

FIG. 13 shows in the invention how duplex properties is controlledfollowing the duplex filter in the transmitting unit.

FIG. 14 shows installation details of mast mounted low voltage gridswith two to four wire cables.

FIG. 15 shows installation details of the invention in low voltage gridswith ground buried cables and junction boxes.

FIG. 16 shows installation details of the invention in telephonenetworks used as copper access networks using signal cables and junctionboxes.

FIG. 17 shows installation details of the invention with mast mountedmedium or high voltage systems using naked wire.

FIG. 18 shows installation details of the invention with installation ofis repeaters at cable splices in particular with ground buried cables.

FIG. 19 shows a novel way of the invention of implementing a couplingloop for feeding and tapping of signals.

FIG. 20 shows a new way of the invention of attaining gains with verylow noise floors and large signal dynamics.

FIG. 21 shows an embodiment of the invention where one embodiment of thesignal splitter or as also named; signal divider, signal hub is shownwith more details than in FIG. 2.

FIG. 22 shows an embodiment of the invention to utilize low portisolation to achieve same frequency amplification for signal repeater inthe respective signal direction in connection with signal splitter orother applications.

FIG. 23 shows how the invention facilitates a larger and improvedutilization of the useful frequency spectrum in power grids.

FIG. 24 shows a typical HFC (Hybrid Fibre Cable) system and it showsarrangements by similar applications of distribution of services in theinvention which includes fibre ring, medium voltage power systems, radioand low voltage power grids.

FIG. 25 shows typical line and star architectures with mast mountedtransformers or substations I USA and other countries where anembodiment of the invention includes signal splitter and repeaterinstalled at the transformer. The figure shows the invention using anarrangement where signal splitter is installed at medium voltage notusing galvanic coupling. Galvanic coupling is shown similarly. Thefigure shows coupling of signal splitter using microwave repeater atmedium voltage lines as signal carriers as well as the option to installsimple and inexpensive base stations for wireless networks. The figureshows both use of transparent analog signal processing and mediaconversion encompassing digital signal processing. The figure showscorrespondingly an arrangement in the invention for media conversion anddigital signal processing.

FIG. 26 shows completely none galvanic coupling with signal splitterwith medium voltage using analog fibre optic links and differentialcoupling loop or inductive antenna.

FIG. 27 shows en embodiment of the invention where a none spaceconsuming galvanic coupling to thick cables or cables with coarse wiresis implemented using contacts that penetrate the cable. A rivet or nailis shot by an ammunition driven gun into the cable as one embodiment. Analternative embodiment is a self tapping screw with drill tip that canbe screwed into the cable time efficiently using a magazine tool,electric or air powered.

FIG. 28 shows distribution of analog service flows on microwave radio.With this arrangement the invention fills a gap between distribution onfibre and on medium voltage to make services and analog broad bandchannels such as Docsis channels available at substations.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

FIG. 1 shows how the invention assumes that the infrastructure 101 maybe regarded as a transmissions line 110, 127 with inserted attenuators112, 121, 125, dispersive conditions 121, 125 and reflections 121, 125and with inserted points 117, 123 where it is possible to regenerate thesignals in units 117, 123 that are inserted or connected to availablephysical points, 123 along the transmission line. With frequencydiversity this can be done for more than one signal direction 113, 114,116, 118, 120, 122, 124, for the same line 111, 126.

For communication principles without frequency diversity in theinvention, that is simplex systems 102, signals can 140, 149 to and fromsuch communication nodes 141, 148 be split 143, 147, 142, 146 highfrequency wise at each end of the communication lap into at least twodifferent frequency regions 145, 144 for both signal directions 145,144.

Thereby may 103 the signal directions 163, 175 along the way in thesystem of the invention be split high frequency wise 166, 165, 169, 170at any point where signal processing is inserted 167, 168 in order tosignal process the different directions 166, 170, 165, 169 individuallyin combination with isolation 162, 172 between the ports of highfrequency 161, 160, 173, 174 that is to be established at is thetermination point.

FIG. 2 shows how the invention solves in an important way dividing orsplitting of the two 202, 203 signal directions of high frequencytowards the main terminal node and towards the customer premises 247-250or following repeaters of repeater cascade 247-250 or a combination ofthese. The invention solves 201 in an important way the problem ofcombining isolation between ports 202-203, 247-250 and signal processing205-246 when the signals are to be split in a Y or star structure. Suchsplitting of the infrastructure with respect to high frequency signalsis either an advantage or a condition when communication equipmentdesignated star networks are to be applied as with xDSL technologies.The invention here also facilitates hybridisation of technologies by asand example using any technology on the main backbone network combinedwith xDSL at the junctions 201 where it is feasible to realize stararchitecture 247-250 for high frequency signals. The invention thereforefacilitates a novel way of connecting as an example cable modem forDocsis back to back via IP interface to a number of xDSL linecards orsymmetrical SHDSL modems for hybridisation of as an example cable modemmodulation and protocol with xDSL modulation and protocol in that thelatter is used on the last lap towards the customer premises. If theinfrastructure or system globally speaking has grid or star structure oras most common consists of a mixture the need for splitting 247-250 willstill be present. Such splitting can be very complex and expensive oreven difficult to realize at all as when isolation, signal dynamics andduplex conditions have to be combined. The invention 201 solves this bysimplicity in a novel way using active circuitry 216-220, 204, 220,230-233 and simple designs. The invention also contributes toregeneration of the signals in both directions in addition to therepeaters themselves by zeroing each virtual line pair electricallyprior to the signals travelling on. Among the most importantcharacteristics of the invention is the splitter exploiting thedifference of S21 and S12 parameters of the amplifiers or their reverseattenuation in that each splitter line of both signal directionsincorporate an individual amplifier 216-220, 230-233. The inventionsolves problems with using duplex filter in each line of varyingimpedance by that the active gain is low and thereby enables optimumvalues for compression point, third order intermodulation and secondorder distortion. Common duplex filters 205, 211 may in stead be used inthe common lines of the respective signal directions. In this way theinvention ensures that the signal directions 202, 203 do not generateinterference for each other and that the noise floor becomes not tohigh. Additionally the innovative solutions of the invention make thesplitter 235, 260-262 as well as the combiner 234, 263-265 broad bandedin both directions. The invention may also be used as splitter orcombiner for one signal direction only. Locally or remotely controlled212-215, 226-229 attenuation 207-210, 222-225 asserts optimum propertiesof the total system regarding dynamics, immunity and unwanted emissions.In addition the passive, magnetic signal splitters or hybrid couplers236-239 and the passive, magnetic devices for suppression of nonedifferential modes 240, 241, 245, 246 are important for optimumconnectivity and additional properties in both directions.

FIG. 3 explains that when the infrastructure does not allow physicalsplitting is the case with conductors in low voltage grids and as anexample in junction boxes the invention solves the problem using 301external attenuation between lines outside 308, 309, 310-312 thesplitter 201 using clamp on ferrites 313-315, 327-329, 314-322 on eachof the corresponding conductors. In addition the invention may use ifnecessary inserted, low impedances 324-326 between conductors or rails330-332 in order to further increase the isolation between all ports forhigh frequency signals. The invention makes it possible to introducethis without disturbing the normal operation of the infrastructure,without requiring power downs during installation and without requiringmodifications of the infrastructure that could influence it's originalpurpose like transmission of power, 301, 302, 303, 304, 305. Applicationof the invention include systems of 2 or more conductors.

FIG. 4 shows that the invention 401 in this way divides junction points402, 403, 430 of the infrastructure into one part being the originalpart functioning as normal 402-403 and into one signal part 419-420 withdifferential signal ports 417, 418 that are split 421, 423 into twosignal directions 422 between the signal ports. This is the principle ofthe invention for any signal processing 424 between a signal port 417and any other 418 and in any signal direction 431, 432. In order tobreak up the original infrastructure for high frequency signals knowntechnology is used for insertion of attenuation 424 using toroids404-411 with magnetic or dielectric material.

FIG. 5 shows that since the invention is intended for infrastructuresand mediums with a large degree of reflections and significant, nonedifferential signal modes, the invention utilizes particularly largesuppression of unwanted signal modes. One such embodiment 501 of theinvention to ensure that unwanted signal modes do not ruin connectivityutilizes three transformers or baluns 506, 507, 508 and two common modechokes 504, 505. In other cases it may be satisfactory using twotransformers and one common mode choke in between them.

FIG. 6 shows that the invention 601 also takes into consideration thatthe infrastructure 602-603 varies with respect to implementation andquality for high frequencies in that introduces signal attenuations 604,605, 606 cannot be calculated or predicted well enough causing beatingto occur despite of for example insertions of ferrites and summation 611of summed attenuation 609, 607, 610. This may be the case for repeaters612-614 that transmit in the same frequency band 619-622 and despitelarge physical range may cause beating that will reduce quality or evenconnectivity. The invention shows a novel method of reducing thisproblem that can provide 10 dB or more signal to noise margin by therepeaters 612-614 transmitting in the same frequency band at carrierfrequencies slightly offset 615 with respect to any 616, 617, 618 of thenearby repeaters that may cause beating in the same frequency band.

FIG. 7 shows that the invention 701 makes use of very small frequencyshifts 711 not larger than to allow the information bandwidth still toremain within same frequency band. In the invention this will to somedegree depend on modulation type being used. In the invention suchfrequency offsets as well as other important repeater parameters isfavourably remote controlled using the main communication system or adedicated interface. Alternatively or additionally the invention usesphase and frequency locking 702 of some or all frequency generators 724in some or all repeaters to avoid beating. Clock regeneration for thispurpose may in the invention be ensured using a dedicated pilot signal721, 722, 725 or by regeneration of clock 725 from one of thecommunication signals.

FIG. 8 shows how 801 the invention has wide application by being usefulfor any modulation type and any communication protocol and hybridsolutions using different modulations types and protocols and byallowing existing, commercially available communication equipment to beused. The principle of the invention for use of simplex systems 809 orsystems with same frequency bands 809, 820 for different signaldirections 820 is usually most conveniently done by splitting thesignals 810-811 having separate frequency conversion 807-808 and signalprocessing 807, 813, 814, 815 for the signal directions, possibly usingcommon or external frequency and phase locking 802-803, 817-818,805-806, 812-813 for the signal directions that are combined and split804, 816.

FIG. 9 explains 901 correspondingly that the principle of the inventionfor use of duplex systems 909 or systems with differing frequency bands910, 911 for different signal directions 910, 911 usually are mostconveniently done with separate frequency converted 907, 908 and signalprocessing 907-914, 908-915, possibly using common or external frequencyand phase locking 902-903, 917-918, 905-906, 912-913 for the signaldirections that are combined and split 916.

FIG. 10 shows 1001 that some of principles of the invention forfrequency conversion is done in a novel way using state of the artintegrated circuits 1020 with dual super heterodyne frequency conversion1009, 1010 and built in double frequency synthesizer including VCO103-104 and designed for cable modems. Since these circuits are designedfor QAM and therefore can handle control of internal beating andspurious through flexible frequency programming they exhibit very lowphase noise and can invert frequency spectrum and even though they arenot designed as such they are well suited for several type repeaters ofthe invention. They also simplify realization of remote controlled1007-1008 or automatic controlled frequency and frequency band and gainsthrough the built in communication interface 1007-1008. Regenerative andsuper regenerative repeaters as described in NO20001057, NO20010132,NO20020112, PCT/NO01/00079, PCT/NO03/00004 are suitable for usestogether with these state of the art integrated circuits.

FIG. 11 explains 1101 that in this and other relations the invention canimprove connectivity partly using signal processing of large dynamics inbase band by applying repeater 1101 that completely demodulates 1112 thesignal, possibly aided by built in clock 1115 down to base band 1112,1114 where after it is modulated 1114, 1113 on a carrier frequency 1116whereas again one sideband and carrier is filtered out or suppressedusing IQ modulation. The corresponding is done using modulator 1123 andrespective demodulator 1129 at each end 1122, 1125 of a communicationlap and by this standard, commercially available communication nodes canbe utilized 1121, 1126.

FIG. 12 shows 1202 that the invention can incorporate new solutionsusing regenerative repeaters, in particular super regenerativerepeaters. A regenerative repeater 1201 consists of an unstableamplifier or oscillator 1223 that is controlled by a quenching circuit1225 and favourably a directional signal coupling 1221. It is known thatgood connectivity is difficult to achieve with such repeaters due to thevariations in installation conditions affecting strongly the propertiesof the repeaters and which may reduce connectivity to a large degree.This is among other reasons due to none ideal coupling parametersintroducing instability as a consequence of S parameter phase responsesbecoming none linear. Super regenerative repeaters use quenchingfrequencies located above the highest information frequency componentand produce sidebands 1229 spreading out from the carrier frequency1228. This may be filtered using band pass filters 1231, but hasdisadvantages because of strict requirements of filtering linearity andstable and repeatable impedances. The invention can in stead utilizethat the super regenerative repeater 1271, 1243, 1244 amplified signal1247 is demodulated down to base band 1251, 1249, 1250, low passfiltered in a phase linear filter 1251 in order to be modulated 1252 ona carrier 1245 that is synchronous and in phase with the superregenerative oscillator 1243 and quench oscillator 1244 that again mustbe mutually synchronized 1275. In addition the invention utilizes thatprior to the regenerative device one or more gain stages are used 1271that by the help of S12 parameters provide isolation preventingregenerated signal to leak to the input terminal 1270. The inventionthereby prevents that S11 and S22 parameters ruin stability andconnectivity, besides this prevents emission and duplex noise fromunwanted sidebands 1267 in connections with super regenerative circuits.The invention therefore allows unwanted sidebands and rest carrier to befiltered away. But this is difficult if the new carrier frequency ishigh. The novel solution of this in the invention is to use dual superheterodyne 1252 where the first or the second intermediate frequency isaligned as to easily obtain filtering of unwanted sideband and restcarrier while the new oscillator for the last frequency conversion alsoare synchronized accordingly and with the first. The inventionfacilitates an even better solution in that the super regenerativesignal is demodulated and modulated using IQ 1249, 1250 signals. Theinvention can also combine IQ demodulation and IQ modulation withsideband filtering to achieve remarkably good dynamic properties. Inprinciple the invention can allow a one port repeater but in reality theinvention means that attenuation between output signal and input signalmay be low, typically down to 10 dB since the output signal with lineartransfer characteristics could be coherent with the input signalthroughout the whole pass band and thus preventing instability. Theresult of the invention is a very clean frequency pass band 1273 in theoutput of the repeater 1207 as well as an improvement of the superregenerative signal dynamics because the whole frequency spectrum 1206from it is utilized in demodulation and consequently with re-modulating.Further improvements of the system signal dynamics and connectivity inthe invention is acquired through the re-modulation improving orfacilitating higher output power from the repeater. The inventionfacilitates using shunted or cascaded regenerative devices 1243, 1244 toincrease signal dynamics while also being able to utilize regenerativedevices 1243, 1244 integrated with frequency conversion to anintermediate frequency for the regenerative oscillator 1243 especiallyto attain sufficient quenching frequency for large informationbandwidths. Together with the active splitter/combiner 201 the isolationbetween input and output signal always can be kept at better than 10 dBand provide stability in spite of installation variations beingsignificant.

FIG. 13 shows 1301 that the invention in the repeaters 1301 makes use ofthe utilization of low gains 1322, 1323 preceding intermediate frequencyselectivity 1322, 1323 and gain by preferably using programmable 1324,1327 low- and high pass filters 1318, 1321 in the input sections whensignificantly strict requirements of cross channel selectivity is notnecessary. This is made possible in the invention despite the limitedisolation achieved in the combiners 1316, 1317, with the aid ofamplifiers 1322, 1323 with low gain and large signal dynamics ahead ofthe signal mixers 1322, 1323 to compensate noise figure losses in thefrequency mixers 1322, 1323 as well as arranging the local oscillatorsusing programmable frequency synthesizers that can be synchronous withother oscillator functions in the repeater or in the system general withrespect to beating and other types of interference. There is thereforeneed for only one, preferably programmable 1324, 1325 band pass filter1319, 1320 for each signal direction 1312, 1313, 1314, 1315 and which isincorporated in the invention after the power gain reaching a level1313, 1314 which is no more than 10-20 dB lower than the desired outputpower from the repeater. A channel selectivity filter may be included ata fixed intermediate frequency 1322, 1323. Through this the noise floorreaching the receivers 1322, 1323 through the combiners 1316, 1317 bekept at typically −100 dBm to −120 dBm depending on the actual matchingto the combiners 1316, 1317. In addition the noise floor is keptcorrespondingly low for what could leak into any neighbouring repeaters1301 in other adjacent frequency bands that might be in use in order toutilize the available frequency spectrum for additional channelavailability or total system bandwidth. The invention is thereby wellsuited for connection to the splitter of FIG. 2 that can offer thenecessary increase in output power. The invention is most convenientlyconnected to the splitter without one of the combiners 1316 and directlythrough separate connections 1312, 1313 for the two signal directions1314, 1315.

FIG. 14 is one example 1401 of nearly unlimited application of theinvention in low voltage grids giving solutions for connectivity andcoupling in mast mounted stretches as is the case with conductorsdesignated EX cables 1413, 1411, 1414, 1412, 1415. Repeater and splitterand power supply 1421 may be placed inside a splash proof, cylindricalencapsulation 1421 close to the cable suspension on the mast 1410 andclose the distribution points 1425 when there are also distributions1415 to power consumers. Clamp-on ferrites are placed on individualconductors that are to carry signal differentially. Signal port towardsthe sub station which is normally used as a terminal point, are coupledinto the repeater differentially with two, possibly fire conductors. Thecable continuing to the next mast is connected in the same manner 1418and the junction distributions are connected correspondingly 1419including possible cables that may be ground cable versions rundownwards on the mast 1416. Connections to the cables may be inductivelyor using commercially available clamps 1426 that penetrate theinsulation. “Short circuit impedance” for high frequency signals can beconnected between the conductors 1425 using the same type of clamps. Insimilar manner a repeater can be connected at any physical point on thecable 1411, 1412, even between masts if it is required. Repeater andsplitter/combiner 1421 usually will be powered through signalconnections 1417 at one of the cabling connection points.

FIG. 15 shows 1501 that corresponding actions can be carried out withinjunction panels and junction boxes 1502 both indoor and outdoor. Thecabinet or box is then usually made of metal and increases immunityagainst none differential modes. The repeater 1509, including thesplitter can be placed in the box with proper environmental protection.Coupling arrangements to the repeater for gains between preceding andsubsequent terminal point, possibly junction box is carried out throughdifferential coupling 1510, 1511 ahead of the ferrites 1504,capacitively or inductively. Similarly the repeater is connected betweenpreceding termination point 1511 and the distribution lines 1512, 1513.

FIG. 16 shows 1601 that in a quite corresponding way the invention canalso be applied to improving connectivity on signal cables 1602, 1608and wires such as in junction boxes 1610 for telephone cables whichthese days are used as so called copper access networks for ADSL andother technologies. These are already with respect to signalsdifferential systems and as such are convenient for adaptation.Additionally they carry just low voltages and small currents and thewire sizes are small and allow effective ferrites to be inserted,preferably as clamp-on to ease installation. High frequency signal shortcircuits are very easy to install between the ferrites 1601, 1605 toshort circuit the differential conductor pair for signals possibly onthe termination strips 1603. In copper systems the invention canincrease the efficiency for xDSL from a few tens of per cent of the wirepairs to one hundred per cent. In this way it can allow transmission ofIP TV without the lines mutually disrupting each other's service. Theinvention improves and facilitates connectivity for xDSL for largebandwidths and higher frequency bands. The invention makes this possibledue to several factors one being that the signals in both directions areregenerated by the lines being zeroed for none differential modes beforeand after they enter a cable with more wire pairs where the cross talkproblems are worst.

FIG. 17 shows 1701 that in a relatively corresponding way the inventioncan provide optimum connectivity during installation in power grids withmast mounted medium voltage lines 1719, 1710, 1712, 1714, 1713, 1715using so called naked wire. The invention shows a novel way of obtainingsignal coupling without the aid of high voltage capacitors that wouldotherwise represent increased risks of operation disturbances and asubstantial cost. The invention utilizes couplers 1721, 1726corresponding to a loop antenna which horizontally or vertically hasdisplaced symmetry to the individual conductors or phases 1710, 1712,1714, 1411, 1713, 1715. The coupler can be made more efficient usingmagnetic materials or using dielectric materials with high Epsilonvalue. To compensate for the difficulty of introducing short circuitsfor high frequencies the coupler is realized using two connections 1727,1728 thus achieving directional sensitivity. The coupler carries twocoupling cables 1727, 1728 to enable this by utilizing phase differencebetween the two signal directions. The arrangement for directionaldiscrimination is put inside the repeaters that have a splitter/combiner1720 as well and where the physical penetration of lines preferablyshould take place at the underside of the encapsulation which must havea waterproof top part. The repeater and the splitter 1720 ensures alsothat the signals to and from the couplers 1721, 1726 are treateddifferentially with respect to the high voltage line geometry. Toroids1717, 1746, 1747 can be installed with hot system and they increaseisolation. A further embodiment 1702 of the invention is a stretched outloop 1744, 1745 working according to the same principle but where theloop geometry also ensures differential input and output feeds withoutan eventual third center conductor disrupting the symmetry. The couplermay also be described as a double delta loop.

FIG. 18 shows 1801 similarly where in ground buried 1810 and other cablesystems it is difficult to achieve satisfying connectivity like when dueto long cable runs between termination points, the invention enablesrepeaters 1817 and possibly also signal splitting at cable splices 1814,1812. Such well insulated cable splices 1812 exist in numbers throughoutcable systems. Digging down to them is a minor cost relative to diggingditches for new cables or fibre cables. Further, it may be costeffective to dig down to a cable in order to perform a standard cablesplicing with the purpose of installing a repeater, possibly also asignal splitter. The coupling loop 1815 works together with the existingasymmetry of the splicing being sufficient for the required couplingwithout the need for galvanic coupling to conductors 1813 of the cablesplice 1814. The repeater may be dug down and possibly poweredinductively using a core 1820 and coil 1819 or a power cable may be runto the surface. With respect to operational reasons the invention allowssignal cables 1821 to run to a surface mounted repeater 1817 possiblywith splitter/combiner 1817 and junctions.

FIG. 19 explains 1901, 1902, 1903 embodiments of the invention includeversions of the coupling loop 1910, 1911, 1930, 1931 advantages forsuppressing none differential modes. With the stretched loop part of theloop system works as transmission lines 1916, 1917. The taperingconductors' angles 1912, 1915 are important for the efficiency of theloop system and should not protrude less than 45 degrees from the loopelements themselves 1910, 1911 that is the elements running parallelwith the cables. The efficiency is at maximum when the spacing 1920between the loop elements 1910, 1911 is slightly larger than the spacingbetween the infrastructure outer conductors of such systems as threeconductor, three phase systems.

FIG. 20 shows how the invention is characterized by obtaining low noisehigh frequency gains in a novel way while third order intermodulationintercept points easily reach over +20 dBm while second order productseasily is kept lower than −65 dBc. Gains in excess of 10 dB is easilyachieved. The invention makes this possible using noise free gain withthe transformer 2013 with the aid of voltage up transformation intoemitter follower connected transistor 2015, 2016 high input impedance.For even higher power levels and intermodulation properties GaAS or HEMTtransistor can be used as source followers.

FIG. 21 shows one embodiment of the invention in which an arrangement ofthe is signal splitter or as also called, the signal splitter or signaldivider or signal distributor and signal hub 2100 is shown in moredetail than in FIG. 2, 201 which it principally is identical to. In thefigure are omitted the external elements that provides externalisolation that the signal hub or signal splitter in various embodimentsof the invention makes use of 301, 401, 1401, 1501, 1601 indistributions and distribution points like substations, transformerinstallations, street junctions boxes, junction boxes, mast mounteddistributions, in building floor distributions, fuse panels, fuse panelboxes and other. The isolation that the signal splitter gives betweendistribution lines is in particular an advantage when the isolatinglines toward customer nodes is called for due to noise and impedancechanges frequency occurring on the opposite side of the customer node.Most embodiments of the invention means generally that transmission ofsignals in both directions can take place on higher frequencies andfarther away from the most problematic noise spectrum on power grids andthat downstream signal transfers can take place in a favourable regionwith respect to short-wave skip frequency regions. Necessary parts ofsignal hub 2100, 201, 301, 401 in some cases in the invention will beimplemented in the customer premises node in order to protect againstinterference from the customers electrical installations, forconnectivity, for analog interfacing of one or several modems and forduplex conditions. In some embodiments of the invention theimplementation in the customer premises node should preferably beintegrated with one or several customer premises modems CPE. In someembodiments of the invention the implementation of the customer nodealso will include at leas tone analog and digital node for two waycommunication for at least one of remote metering, surveillance, alarmand “Smart House” applications. Even if most embodiments of theinvention are present as signal hub 2100, 201 301, 401 in substations,junction boxes, outdoor junctions and similar infrastructure belongingto a utility company it is obvious that similar embodiments of theinvention are applicable in buildings, enterprise facilities, industryfacilities, apartment complexes and in similar implementations. Thesignal splitter or signal hub will in most embodiments be applicablewith PHY in all types of communications systems that utilize up to a fewtens of Megahertz analog channel bandwidths and at carrier frequenciesup to at least 100 MHz. It is well suited for PHY of Docsis 1.0, 1.1,2.0, 3.0, of different versions of Wimax technologies and of varioustypes of PLC or BPL technologies. The use of the invention withtelecommunication on the power grids accomplishes nearly full bandwidththroughout the whole system as well as achieving nearly one hundred percent stability and predictability all of which has not been achievableso far. This facilitates useful, commercial quality via the power gridsof products like Triple Play, Quadruple Play encompassing IPTV, VoD,VoIP and internet and additionally CATV and TV surveillance. In additionthe invention facilitates use of DVB on the power-grids similarly to thecable industry. Technologies like EdgeQAM and for example hybrid DVB andIP solutions is also possible with the invention through increasedstability and consistency. In other implementations of the inventionnovel wireless solutions both for two way and broadcast is facilitated.Two way solutions for remote metering, “Smart House” and similar usescan be included quite inexpensively with the invention. In someembodiments of the invention parts of or all circuitry in signal hub canbe realized in one chip or in chip sets due to the complexity. Theprinciple of most embodiments of the invention being to achieveincreased isolation 2113, 2162 through the various amplifiercombinations like downstream 2112, 2160, 2116 correspondingly withupstream 2122-2124 in the shown embodiment is the same as shown in theembodiment shown in FIG. 2. The resulting isolation 2163, 2164 ispresent at the ports for client lines 2118 and main line 2119 that allare mutually isolated from each other in both signal directions.Further, the substation 2109 is also mutually isolated with respect tothe other ports 2118, 2119. There may be more than one port for maincables if such a junction is present where the signal hub is installed.This may be the case at transformer points in mast mounted grids in USAand other parts of the world. The ports 2109, 2118, 2119 are routedthrough common mode chokes using galvanic isolation and from theredifferentially to a new galvanically isolated point which eitherconsists of high voltage capacitors or coupling loop. With low voltagecoupling the preferred embodiment would be capacitors in which way thewires from the signal hub is connected galvanically and differentiallydirectly to the power phases. This may also be the preferred embodimentof the invention with medium voltages of 1 to 2 kilovolts. For highervoltages with medium voltage differential, none galvanic coupling usingloop would be the preferred embodiment of the invention. Withimplementation of galvanic coupling to low voltage phases it is easy torealize power supply to the signal hub tapping one of the differentialports in front of the capacitors or similarly between one of the phasesand neutral. The number of distributions in the signal hub can withseveral embodiments of the invention be high and largely only limited byinput driver capacity 2165 to downstream power amplifiers 2112, 2160,2115, 2111 and the summed noise floor in the upstream signal summationpart 2126. The isolation between the ports of the signal hub means thatthe phase distribution to the distribution of the junction is not aproblem for differential input and output coupling of signals on thedistribution cables. For the distribution lines that are connected tothe same phases the number of ports in the signal hub may be easilyexpanded using resistor networks on each of the ports 2118 provided thatthe reduced isolation between the respective distribution lines isaccepted. Both input and output coupling differentially is decisivelyimportant with respect to emission and immunity properties. At theexpense of the lower frequency regions capacitive or inductive couplingusing for example clamps around the cables or using proximity to thecables can be applied. Levels upstream can be adjusted usingprogrammable 2121 amplifiers 2122-2124 to obtain the best possibledynamic balance for the system that the signal hub 2100 is part of. Therepeater 2161 can have AGC (Automatic Gain Control) 2106 or fixed,preset gain. Level balance and output power levels are controlled 2167,2168, 2116 in the individual modules. Downstream repeater 2161 is eitherof frequency shifting type or same frequency type and has sufficientdynamics to sustain signal levels in the system that the signal hub ispart of. High frequency filters 2105, 2106, 2133 as well as highfrequency filters in the modules 2135, 2168 provide selectivity, crosschannel suppression and duplex selectivity. A broadband input amplifier2108 with low gain and large dynamic range ensures unnecessary loss ofsignal to noise ratio for the downstream signal that can besubstantially attenuated. At the same time it provides stable impedancefor the repeater and filter 2161, 2104 and for the other modules thatare to utilize the downstream signals 2127 and to the downstreamsplitter 2110 which with varying impedance conditions with power gridcables exhibits limited isolation. In one embodiment the downstreamfrequency spectrum is aligned in the centre of the frequency windowwhich is feasible with the cables in which optimum immunity conditionsexists which again is important for all types of PHY especially due toservice flows like unicast and multicast. In some embodiments of theinvention selection takes place of the most favourable frequency regionfor downstream versus immunity both along the cascade and often inparticular when close to the customer node where the noise level usuallyis the highest. In some embodiments of the invention the signal huballows frequency shifting of downstream to a frequency region which issuitable for the specific part of the cascade or the actual distributionline. This is especially important with Docsis which has no adaptivefunctions for downstream. The invention enables switch selection of adevice 2101 for downstream in addition to the downstream repeater 2161,2105, 2106. This device 2101 can allow pass through of a differentfrequency window than the normal downstream repeater 2161, 2105, 2106for example for narrow band communication such as for so called two waycommunication, remote metering, alarm and other uses. This signal isthen amplified somewhat in the broad banded power amplifiers 2112, 2160,2115. The splitter hybrid 2110 combines upstream signals or returnsignals 2170 that are to travel to the substation 2109. Use of splitterhybrid here in place of duplex filter makes the repeater 2161, 2104,2103 as well as 2135, 2168 more flexible with respect to frequency bandsand makes programmability easier. In this embodiment of the inventionduplex selectivity is implemented in active modules that must beprovided selectivity 2161, 2135, 2168 as well as the application ofmoderate and broad banded gain in the power amplifiers 2111, 2112, 2160,2115, 2170 with the exception of some less demanding filtering 2171. Theupstream signal 2173 is being directly amplified without frequencyshifting from the distribution lines 2118 and main line 2119 and ispassed unfiltered or band pass filtered to the summation device 2141after being split 2133 into an upstream signal to be up converted 2180.Here the invention achieves utilization of the noisy lower frequencyregion with the aid of high transmit power versus high noise level atthe customer node. To the summation device 2137 upstream signals travel2180, 2175 from the main line 2119 implying the signal hub 2100 furtherdown the cascade that has passed through signal repeater 2168 in ahigher frequency band which favourably is above the frequency bands fordownstream. In this way the signal hub achieves larger upstreambandwidth capacity which may reach several tens of Megabits/s. Immunityremains very good because the upstream signals along the cascade do notuse low frequency where interference levels are the highest. The cascadehere is either in the low voltage grid using star architecture or in themedium voltage using star architecture (USA). Repeater 2168 may be offrequency shifting type or same frequency type and programmable forfrequency, filters and gains. In the summation device 2137 these signalsare summed together with the upstream signal from the local distributionlines 2118 that have been up converted in the repeater 2135 to the samefrequency region as that of repeater 2168. The sum signal 2176 goes to apower amplifier 2170 via filter 2171 and the signals 2172 is added inthe summation device 2141. In one embodiment of the inventionfrequencies, high frequency filters and gains are controlled 2139 by amicrocontroller 2132. The microcontroller can have other tasks liketalking with sensor systems 2151, 2153 such as current and voltagesensing at the location where the signal hub is installed. In oneembodiment of the invention the microcontroller is connected to a twoway communication module 2130 for external control and downloading ofparameters, firmware, two way communication of information from variousparts of the signal hub and sensor system 2151, 2153. The communicationdevice 2130 may be constituted of standard radio transceiver. This maybe adapted to the signal hub frequency regions with the help of up anddown conversions 2129 that possibly may be controlled by the radio TRswitch 2127, 2128. One example o fuse of radio and protocol is Zigbeewhich allows very low stand-by current draws. This allows the radio 2130to have UPS power supply 2143 which again enhances the applicability ofthe invention for alarm, surveillance, emergency voice and otherpurposes. In one embodiment of the invention it may utilize only thepart of the signal hub with passive components but with the penalty ofseriously degraded properties however being sufficient for applicationof narrower bandwidths. To the expert further applications than thosementioned in this application text may be obvious and such applicationscan also encompass wireless applications and applications in other typesof cable and wires nets.

FIG. 22 shows arrangements in the invention in order to utilize thelimited port isolation with the purpose of achieving same frequencygains for signal repeater for respective signal direction in connectionwith signal hub and other applications. With known technology 2201 superregenerative gain is applied 2209 both to accomplish stability with samefrequency amplification and to achieve the gain itself. The stability isrealized by quenching 2210 which in many cases must be synchronous orcoherent 2211. In one port super regenerative repeaters the stability isunreliable if impedance changes occur. With two port implementation2205, 2212 an improvement is achieved determined by the externalisolation or attenuation between the ports 2207. Here the repeater infact offers 2209 both gain and isolation that can be regarded as addedto the external isolation 2207. With wide bandwidths and bandwidthfactors it is difficult in practice to implement such a solution and itwill tend to become complex and costly. This is among other factors dueto interference from the sidebands and local oscillator. In oneembodiment 2202 of the invention the super regenerative amplifier isused 2221 primarily to render isolation 2207. The amplifier 2221 canpossibly have negative gain and sufficient dynamics in the embodiment isalternatively achieved using ordinary amplifiers 2214, 2215 with AGC2216 or other form of control of dynamics. Output power is accomplishedusing a power amplifier 2220 and thus providing signal power for thesignal hub becomes far easier 2100. An advantage for the signal hub 2100is also that white noise associated with the super regenerativeprinciple remains at a far lower level and becomes comparable to anamplifier using know technology. In one embodiment of the invention 2203direct conversion frequency conversion is used 2233, 2232, 2247 for thebroad band signal 2231, 2230 down to base band 2235 where it is low passfiltered 2239 and fed to the super regenerative amplifier at a port thatprovides conversion properties up from the MHz region. The port normallyused for high frequency signal injection 2274 is injected with a highfrequency signal, preferably in the Gigahertz region and at a suitablelevel. Quench signal 2237, possibly synchronized 2243, is injected innormal manner. The resulting, modulated signal 2274, is demodulated tobase band 2240 and again modulated 2241, 2244 up to the same signalfrequency 2246 so that the output signal looks 2245 like the inputsignal 2231. In one embodiment of the invention a common clock controls2251 local oscillators 2247, quench signal 2242 and possibly theinjection signal 2275. In one embodiment of the invention the clock 2250is controlled coherently by a signal 2248 that can be a loop circuitryto the repeater input or output signal. In the same way as knowntechnology embodiments of the invention can be implemented as shunted orcascaded arrangements 2204 where the AGC controlled base band inputsignal 2260 is summed in a number of super regenerative devices2267-2269, correspondingly also the injected high frequency signal 2262.The modulated high frequency signal 2272 is a sum of the signals2264-2266 prior to being demodulated to base band 2271 into a signal2273 that can be up converted to or modulated on a desired frequency. Insome embodiments of the invention 2202, 2203, 2204 the circuitry can berealized in a chip or in a chip set.

FIG. 23 shows how the invention facilitates a more comprehensive andimproved utilization of the useful frequency spectrum with power gridcables. Examples of use of Docsis 3.0 or more Docsis 1.1-2.0 channels isshown. With frequency shifting repeaters 2301 in the signal hub 2100 thefrequency spectrum as shown in the figure is divided into segments forsignals from the distribution lines 3, downstream input or output signal1, 2, downstream output or input signal 1, 2, upstream input signals 3,4 and upstream output signals 3, 4. The typical downstream bandwidth maybe 16 MHz or two EuroDocsis channels. With same frequency repeaters 2302the division is corresponding but with twice as much bandwidth. Typicaldownstream bandwidth will be four EuroDocsis channels or 4 bundledchannels in Docsis 3.0. The invention also facilitates utilizing fullbandwidth with many other telecommunication PHY as for example Wimax.Even PHY of other and less bandwidth demanding technologies can benefitfrom the invention and among the examples are CMDA, WiFi, GPRS, xDSL,Ethernet.

FIG. 24 shows 2401 a typical HFC (Hybrid Fibre Cable) orfibre-to-the-home system. Transfer takes place of a frequency spectrumof about 800 MHz and typically 100 8 MHz channels 2410 all the way fromthe central node 2411 and right to the customer 2408 through a smallnumber of nodes 2403-2405 that each has a very large number of customernodes 2408. The figure shows implementations 2480 of similarapplications of distribution of service flows with the present inventionthat encompasses fibre ring 2475, sub stations or transformers 2461,2450, 2479, 2443 with signal hubs, medium voltage grids 2454-2455, 2460,radio 2440, 2465, 2467, junction points or junction boxes 2429, 2430,2427 with signal hubs, low voltage grids 2462, 2428, 2462, 2442 andcustomer nodes 2471, 2472 with signal adapters and modems. The normalembodiment of the invention will be using analog signal processing dueto several factors like cost and life time butt he invention also can beimplemented using digital signal processing that can includeimplementations using A/D and D/A converters and FIR filtering and wherethe implementations preferably have the signal processing realizeddirectly in silicon. In some embodiments of the invention the low powergrid 2428 is made up of the power grid within apartment complexes wheredistribution points 2429, 2430 2427 are distribution panels withinbuilding and where signal hub is installed. In some embodiments of theinvention the fibre ring will combine analog and digital transmission,preferably using optical frequency multiplexing on the same fibre. Inpower grid systems the individual node 2425 will carry far less customernodes 2428 that will be connected in a star architecture out from thesub station node 2424, 2425, but where the medium voltage grid 2454,2455 most likely has a grid architecture. With most embodiments of theinvention the nodes 2424, 2425 therefore will consist of a large numberthat requires access to the service flows. In may embodiments of theinvention using analog distribution of service flows on fibredistribution on the fibre ring in a similar manner as HFC of somehundreds of channels will consisting of Docsis downstreams 2475. Thelimited bandwidth in the power grid demands that in the nodes 2424 onlya few channels can be picked out 2420 selected by frequency conversionand selectivity in the sub station node point 2479. They can be selectedfrom any of all the channels 2423. In one embodiment of the inventionall of the selectable channels 2420 can be transferred all the way outto all customers 2428 with the respective sub station node 2425 afterbeing packed together shoulder against should and moved to the frequencyregion that the signal hub 2100, 201 in the node point uses towards thepower grid. In many embodiments of the invention different combinationsof channels can be fed to different cable departures from the substation. This will increase the total bandwidth at the sub station nodeand increases the achievable number of service flows for one sub stationnode 2479. Upstream the capacity often will be sufficient for severaltens of Megbits/s. Because cable departures with star-star architecturecorrespond to junction boxes the invention permits such application ofsignal hub in the sub station as well with resulting isolation betweencable departures. Corresponding increase of isolation is achieved alsofor the upstream signals. In some embodiments of the invention the sameis taking place in a reverse order for upstream but here also theupstream frequencies are transferred on original frequencies betweensignal hub 2100, 201 and the node ring 2475, 2440. In one embodiment ofthe invention medium voltage 2454 is connected to signal hub in the sameway. In other embodiments of the invention the node point 2450, 2451will be connected to the service flows through one or several other nodepoints 2479 that receive the services through the fibre ring 2480 orradio 2461. One embodiment of the invention uses TV—video channels withDVB quality of for example 1.5 to 2 Mbits/s. One embodiment of theinvention uses compression of video services in the main node 2422 suchas MPEG4 for delivery of high resolution TV—video channels using forexample 1.5-2 Mbits/s. In still one embodiment of the inventioncompression using for example MPEG4 is used to deliver high resolutionTV—video channels with for example 3 to 5 Mbits/s. In this way a typicaltripling of the number of feasible video channels is achieved. Thismeans that the invention with this embodiment can offer a virtualavailability at the customer 2428 via signal hub at the node point 2425to select between a number such as 60 TV channels. The inventionfacilitates this through the use of such as multicast over IP and bybenefiting from the statistical probability of simultaneous use beingvery low thus allowing as an example that 20 to 25 TV channels deliveredsimultaneously from one single node or from one single sub station isexperienced as 100 channels at the customer. In some embodiments of theinvention similar channels could be Wimax channels that contain thedifferent service flows. In other embodiments of the invention theheadend can be moved out to the node points 2479 and feed or be feddirectly by signal hub 2100, 201 at the sub station. These embodimentscan be typical o fuse of PHY of PLC or BPL technologies such as DS2. Incorresponding ways other embodiments of the invention the headend 2422can have PHY of Wimax, PLC, BPL, WiFi, DVB or other technologies andcorrespondingly the customer nodes 2428 can have matching PHY in modemsused together with the frequency conversion devices at the customernodes 2528. For DVB the invention enables the use of set top boxes thatincludes upstream in the form such as cable modem. In some embodimentsthe invention facilitates hybrid integrated use of PHY of severaltechnologies through large analog bandwidth and a typical embodiment ofthe invention is a combination of Docsis and DVB, possibly with the aidof EdgeQAM, MCMTS and similar technologies where EdgeQAM may reside atnode points 2479 and receive downstream feeding over Gigabit Ethernetvia fibre 2475 or radio and where fibre 2475 can be frequencymultiplexed analog and digital. EdgeQAM thereby can be utilized as it isfeeding the signal hub and other signal dividers in other nodes 2450,2451 via medium voltage 2454, 2455. In a hybrid embodiment of theinvention and depending on the available infrastructure and positioningof headends or use of technologies such as EdgeQAM, servers for videoand VoD can be placed farther out towards the customer nodes like at thesub stations to make access to the number of service flows moreconvenient from the customer nodes. In one hybrid embodiment of theinvention suitable headends, masters or slaves with antennas 2478, 2477can for wireless technologies such as Wimax or WiFi be placed atselected sub stations 2470, 2476, distribution points, junctions boxesand street junction boxes 2429 with low voltage 2478, 2477 or withmedium voltage 2474 and thus create inexpensive cell solutions for thesetechnologies. In one even less expensive embodiment of the invention forthis is correspondingly a two way up and down conversion with antennaconnection 2478 connected to signal hub at the distribution point 2429so that PHY of the wireless technology can reside centrally, favourablyall the way back to the main node point 2422. In some cases novel microcell topologies are realizable and in other cases the invention issuitable for macro cells.

FIG. 25 shows 2501 typical line 2510-1514, 2526-2527 and stararchitecture 2520-2522, 2524 with mast mounted transformers or substations 2511-2513, 2523 in the USA and other countries where anembodiment 2505 of the invention including a signal hub and repeater2528 is installed at the transformer 2523 and where the topology fromthe node point becomes a star architecture 2520-2522, 2524. In theembodiment of the invention there is a supply line 2583, 2524, 2510 andseveral load lines 2585, 2486, 2524, 2515, 2520 while one of the loadlines 2583, 2527, 2515 or possibly several are also feeder lines or partof the main line and feeder for subsequent junction 2430, 2512. In oneembodiment of the invention the medium voltage lines can have fibrealong the line and the topology may resemble the one in FIG. 24 with theexception that the low voltage mainly is not star-star. In otherembodiments of the invention where fibre is not as available more nodes2511-2513 will be linked together over medium voltage 2515, 2516 andsignal hub will act as repeater also for medium voltage 2511, 2512, 2513figures also shown in the FIG. 2450, 2451. The figure shows further anembodiment of the invention 2502 with an arrangement where signal hub isinstalled at medium voltage 2530-2531 with none galvanic coupling2533-2534 and signal repeater or signal repeaters in signal hub 2538 andcoupling to distribution lines 2539 or sub station departure cables2539. Galvanic coupling is shown in a similar manner 2543-2544. Thefigure further shows 2503 connection of signal hub 2561, 2569 with useof microwave repeater 2554, 2567 using medium voltage lines as signalcarrier as well as added installations of simple and low cost basestations 2557, 2573 for wireless networks. The figure shows bothapplication of transparent analog signal processing 2559, 2557 and mediaconversion 2572, 2569 encompassing digital signal processing. When thedistance on medium voltage lines are too large between the node points2511, 2512 the microwave signals is maintained using repeaters usingknown technology 2554, 2550, 2551 also between the nodes. The figureshows 2504 in correspondence to 2502 and 2503 an arrangement in theinvention using media conversion and digital signal processing. Onembodiment of the invention is using hybrid PHY such as by combinationof Docsis on the main lines and xDSL 2586, 2597 in connection with thesignal hub 2583, 2593.

FIG. 26 shows an embodiment of the invention 2600 with fully, nonegalvanic coupling of signal hub 2610 to medium voltage using analogfibre optic links 2618, 2619 and differential coupling loop or inductiveantenna 2635. The fibre optic interfaces 2618, 2619 and amplifiers 2631,2632 receives power none galvanically through photo cells 2626 fromartificial light 2622 or in other embodiments of the invention fromnatural light 2623 and in still other embodiments the power transfertakes place through inductive coupling 2629. The inductive coupler orloop antenna 2635 will in some embodiments of the invention be severalsmaller loop antennas or loop couplers possibly with magnetic ordielectric material to make the dimensions smaller and installation moreapplicable. Since the energy requirements are moderate the power supply2627 can be made as UPS. In one embodiment of the invention this is usedin sub stations having hazardous conditions and where human safety mustbe taken care of. The same may be relevant to mast mounted sub stations.

In FIG. 27 is shown 2701-2703 an embodiment of the invention where aspace saving galvanic connection to large diameter conductors or cables2711 with coarse strands 2710 is performed using contacts 2720, 2722that penetrates the is cable. A rivet or nail 2722 is shot by anammunition driven gun into the cable as one embodiment. An alternativeembodiment is a self tapping screw 2720 with drill tip 2721 that can bescrewed into the cable time efficiently using a magazine tool, electricor air powered. Standard screws or nails 2713 can be specially designedwith snap on heads 2712 for insertion of insulated plugs 2714 that maybe part of a manufactured wire matrix 2715. A more primitive embodimentis use of cable lugs with holes 2716 with wires 2717 that is being fixedby the screws or nails 2713. In one embodiment of the invention therewill always run a small current between the cable and screw or nailprotecting against corrosion in a similar way as cathodic protection.The current going through the coupling capacitors 2100, 201, 301, 401 issufficient for the purpose. The figure shows further an embodiment ofthe invention where differential conductors 2728 are connected toconductors or phases 2722, 2723 of a power cable 2720 differentially andin many embodiments of the invention using screw or nail points 2727 andas close to the point where the conductors split from the cable aspossible. In one embodiment of the invention the differential wireinjection, extraction, feeding, tapping, power feed through anadditional ferrite core 2729 preferably positioned close to theconnection points 2727 for improvement of common mode suppression inaddition to the coupler arrangement in FIG. 5, 501 and arrangement 2707.The ferrites 2726, 2731 then also can be positioned closer to the cablecrotch and the same will be the case of the shunting impedance 2724which in many embodiments of the invention can be connected throughscrew or nail principles. The shunt impedance 2724, 412-415, 324-326,2743 can as supplement or as replacement be connected between the phases2740, 2741 installed on the phase rails in junction box or as otherembodiments between the phase conductors. The shunt impedance may bedifficult to install on the rails in many junction boxes with lack ofroom in which cases installation on the distribution conductors 2722,2723, 310, 311, 312, 301, 302, 402, 403 is a good embodiment of theinvention. In other embodiments and in particular with implementationswhere installation of shunt impedance is difficult the implicit shuntingimpedance may be satisfactory. Implicit shunt impedance is made up ofattenuation from distributions, about 4 dB per doubling, or it may bemade up of transformer or of shunting from rails or combinationsthereof. Shunt impedances 2743 may in many embodiments of the inventionbe arranged using high voltage capacitors soldered to a substrate formechanical strength and carrying terminals for installation on rails orconductors. In other implementations 2708 shunt impedance will consistof three terminals 2774-2776 where one is connected to ground or neutralfor common mode energy to be additionally attenuated in a bleederresistor 2770 and additionally the shunting of differential modesthrough the capacitors 2772, 2773. A corresponding embodiment of theinvention 2707 where differential couplers or common mode chokes 501 aremade using groundings 2760 made via a bleeder resistor 2761 from neutralpoints 2762 of the coupler magnetic 2763 components. Serial impedances2726, 2731, 313, 327, 404-407, 408-411 is part of the invention in mostof it's embodiments and are in most cases realizable using clamp onferrites preferably as toroids or split noise suppression ferrites. Oneembodiment 2706 of the invention is when a small air gap is introduced2752, 2753 between the core halves 2750, 2751. In the embodiment thisgives a small reduction of the magnetic permeability for the highfrequency resistance that the toroid introduces in the conductor that itencircles while the reduction of magnetic permeability is large for lowfrequency like 50 and 60 Hertz. Hereby the invention prevents lowfrequency modulation due to the introduced serial impedance and offerslarger margins when the supply currents are high in the conductors. Theinvention can correspondingly utilize ferrite materials with lowpermeability on low frequency and high permeability on high frequency.Further, some embodiments of the invention can utilize toroids or othermechanical form and magnetic impedance made up from metamorphic magneticmaterials that have favourable saturation properties. In someembodiments of the invention it is sufficient using implicit serialimpedances of the junction. These may for example be made up ofconductor impedances, impedances in fuses, impedances in transformers.

FIG. 28 shows distribution of analog service flows with microwave radio2801. With this arrangement the invention is filling a gap betweendistribution on fibre and on medium voltage in order to make theservices accessible in the sub station nodes. Radio link for digitaltransmission and interface is known technology. The invention transmitsanalog signals in both directions but favourably with digital modulationand can be arranged as point to point link 2823, point to multipoint2824, 2825 and as radio ring with the help of repeaters 2815. With thegiven implementation the interfaces 2810-2813 are analog and theinvention therefore means a substantial cost reduction compared todigital radio links in combination with headend at the node point, asfor example with a Docsis CMTS. With the invention no headend isrequired at the node point. The signals may in stead be up or downconverted and amplified in both signal directions toward the power gridand through the signal hub 201, 2100. At the repeater station bleedingof downstream and upstream signals to the repeater is performed and isconnected to a node belonging to the local, surrounding power gridthrough signal hub 201, 2100. In one embodiment the invention usesfrequency modulation, phase modulation, PSK or QPSK and thereby makingthe required repeaters 2815 very cost effective in production. In thisembodiment the repeaters have frequency conversion using relativelyinexpensive frequency generation as well as limiting amplifiers atintermediate frequencies interconnection between antennas of therepeater 2820,2815, 2819. In the headend point 2810 the intermediatefrequency signals of the transceivers are modulated and demodulated tocorrespond with the headend used. In the node points 2815, 2817, 2816modulation and demodulation takes place in order for the PHY to beregenerated. In a further embodiment the invention uses QAM and applieslinear signal processing which includes AGC and frequency generationproducing low phase noise. This embodiment offers improved utilizationof the available frequency spectrum by a factor 3-4. It is fullypossible to transfer typically 4 Docsis channels using the inventiondownstream on a single departure cable of a sub station or transformer.In many embodiments of the invention different channel clusters can befed into different cable departures 2581, 2582 from substation 2425 orcorrespondingly on different distribution lines 2581, 2582 when these godirectly from the transformer node. This increases the total bandwidthat the sub station node and increases the number of possible serviceflows at one sub station node 2479. Often the capacity upstream will besufficient for several tens of Megbits/s. Since departures withstar-star architecture correspond to junction boxes the inventionfacilitates such application of signal hub also at the sub stationproviding resulting isolation between departure cables. For furthercapacity the invention is implemented 2805 with several microwavetransceivers 2881-2884 where a larger number of channels 2880 aredistributed to transceivers and summed 2886 at the antenna feed 2881. Inone embodiment of the invention uses a narrow duplex filter 2802,favourably both for receiver and transmitter in order to enable verysmall duplex spacings. In this way this embodiment of the inventionfacilitates easier access to licenses since only one frequency band or anarrow frequency region is required for both transmission directions. Inone embodiment of the filter production tuning of bandwidth and couplingis performed by adjusting the spacing 2847-2849 between dielectricresonators 2844, 2845 and to simple 50 ohm lines 2842, 2843 that alsoconstitute input and output ports 2840-2841 of the filter. The filtercan correspondingly be made using more than two resonators. In oneimplementation the filter is shielded using a metal encapsuling 2860against the substrate 2863 where tuning screws or tuning pins 2861-2862are attached to the screening 2860. In one embodiment the inventionutilizes polarization 2827-2831 for the transmission directions2823-2825 to improve duplex conditions. In still another embodiment theinvention uses separate antennas for transmit and receive for duplexoperation, preferably by the use of high carrier frequencies andconsequently small antennas as for example printed circuit antennas.

1. Signal hub arrangement for transfer and regeneration of highfrequency signals in distributed repeater systems, comprising: thesignal hub arrangement being installed in junction points; wherein thearrangement includes the unmodified or modified radio frequency behaviorof said junction points; and a RF hub with at least two ports; andwherein said arrangement combines regeneration of RF signals betweensaid junction points in at least one signal direction; at samefrequencies or different frequencies; wherein PHY dependency isseparated between said RF signals and at least one of load lines of saidhub, wherein said hub in at least one signal direction includesdemodulation and re-modulated RF carriers, where said re-modulation,independent of modulation of said RF signals, can use at least one ofbut not limited to modulation types QAM and OFDM with distribution ofthe said RF carriers to at least one of load lines and feeder lines; atany of same frequencies and different frequencies; while RF signalisolation for high frequency signals is maintained between input andoutput signals and between input signals and between output signals ofat least one signal direction; and wherein said arrangement uses thejunction points; with conductors that can include at least one of highvoltage and medium voltage and low voltage and signal networks. 2.Signal hub arrangement according to claim 1, in that said RF signals areDocsis standard signals in at least one signal direction.
 3. Signal hubarrangement according to claim 1, in that said RF signals are usingstandard based on OFDM modulation in at least one signal direction. 4.Signal hub arrangement according to claim 1, in that said re-modulatedRF carriers in at least one signal direction uses OFDM modulation. 5.Signal hub arrangement according to claim 1, in that the signaltransmission is utilizing at least one microwave input and outputinterfacing of signals to at least one conductor in mast mounted wiresusing at least one feeder and load line.
 6. Signal hub arrangementaccording to claim 1, wherein the said signal hub arrangement workingprinciple to include at least one isolation impedance constituted by atleast one of shunt and series impedances consisting of at least one ofintroduced shunting capacitor and shunting capacitor with resistor andintroduced magnetic material and introduced dielectric material andimplicit, inherent serial impedance and implicit, inherent shuntimpedance.
 7. Signal hub arrangement according to claim 1, wherein saidsignal hub is facilitating utilization of different frequency bands forat least one of different signal directions and different signal inputsand different signal outputs.
 8. Signal hub arrangement according toclaim 1, wherein said signal hub is facilitating application of samefrequency for regeneration of said RF signals.
 9. Signal hub arrangementaccording to claim 1, wherein said signal hub is utilizing at least onesignal hub arrangement connected to interface at least one wirelesssystem for local coverage using said wireless system.
 10. Signal hubarrangement according to claim 1, wherein said signal hub is utilizingat least one signal hub arrangement with at least one of intelligent orremote control of signal hub arrangement parameters and variables. 11.Signal hub arrangement according to claim 1, wherein said signal hub isutilizing at least one signal hub arrangement with redundantcommunication capacity for narrow band applications that at is poweredby at least one of electrical grid and by UPS uninterrupted powersupply.
 12. Signal hub arrangement according to claim 1, wherein saidsignal hub is utilizing at least one signal hub arrangement connected toat least one of at least one sensor and at least one actuator. 13.Signal hub arrangement according to claim 1, wherein said signal hubthrough said signal hub arrangement is capable of connecting to any typeof service interface that uses digital or analog bandwidth.
 14. Signalhub arrangement according to claim 1, wherein said signal hub isutilizing none galvanic and touch proof coupling to medium voltage orhigh voltage using optical solutions.
 15. Signal hub arrangementaccording to claim 1, wherein said signal hub is utilizing at least onesignal hub arrangement in node point that is connected to radio linkthrough analog interface.
 16. System according to claim 1, wherein atleast two signal hubs in at least two node points are interconnectedthrough medium voltage for transmissions of at least one downstreamchannel and at least on upstream channel across said medium voltageconnection for distribution of at least one of analog channel capacityand service flows.
 17. Signal hub arrangement according to claim 1,wherein said signal hub is utilizing at least one signal hub arrangementwith galvanic signal coupling; wherein said signal coupling is usingcompact signal conductor contacts on power line conductors.
 18. Signalhub arrangement according to claim 1, wherein said signal hub isutilizing signal hub arrangement with repeater with none galvaniccoupling; wherein none galvanic signal coupling is used; wherein saidcoupling consist of a magnetic coupling loop.
 19. Signal hub arrangementaccording to claim 1, wherein said signal hub is utilizing said repeaterto achieve stable isolation for high frequency signals between at leastone of feeder and load lines of any type of distribution in any type ofcircuit using conductors that can include at least one of medium voltagecircuits and low voltage power grids and signal networks and highvoltage circuits.
 20. Signal hub arrangement according to claim 1,wherein said signal hub is used for Triple Play and Quadruple Playsignal transmission with high frequency signals; wherein saidtransmissions being delivered to customer nodes via sub stations;wherein said sub stations are using signal hub arrangement where saidhub can achieve isolation for high frequency signals between at leastone of feeder and load lines in any type distribution in any type ofcircuit using conductors that can include at least one of medium voltagecircuits and low voltage power grids and signal circuits.